PMC Now Offering Pet Scans to Target Prostate Cancer

On March 10, 2023, the Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) Diagnostic Center team reached another milestone by performing the region’s first PET scan designed specifically to detect prostate cancer. PMC can now perform a specialized scan that detects cells indicating prostate cancer.

The risk of developing prostate cancer increases as men age. Second to skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men. Statistics show about 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, with 60% of cases diagnosed in men aged 65 and over, according to the American Cancer Society.

“We are so excited to be able to offer this new diagnostic test at Pikeville Medical Center,” said Joni Fields, PMC Vice President of Diagnostic Services. “Being able to provide this advanced testing gives patients of this region access to technology that is not offered at any other facility in Eastern Kentucky.”

The prostate PET scan can be used as a tool to diagnose or help guide treatment for prostate cancer. Prior to the scan, a patient will receive an injection which will highlight prostate cancer cells.

This new PET scan technology is particularly beneficial to urologists treating patients who are at high risk of or suspected of having prostate cancer by offering an advanced tool to expedite a cancer diagnosis and treatment. Knowing if the cancer has spread beyond the prostate at the time of diagnosis is a monumental step in helping patients achieve the best possible outcome.

In its early stages prostate cancer may not exhibit any symptoms, but as it advances may cause men to experience trouble urinating, decreased force in the urine stream, blood in the urine, weight loss without trying or erectile dysfunction.